The arms race continues at full speed in North Africa, as in many parts of the world.
Morocco continues its steps to consolidate the armed forces and modernize its capabilities. In this context, Rabat government, which is estimated to acquire VL MICA air defence system from France, has signed a loan agreement with BNP Paribas of France worths to 192.1 million Euros. The procurement is expected to be part of the comprehensive agreement signed with a 400 million Euro budget. Morocco will also acquire CAESAR (CAmion Équipé d's Système d'ARtillerie / Truck-Mounted Artillery System) truck-mounted howitzer under the contract in question.
The land-based air defence system VL MICA has the Sagem SIGMA 30 radar. Missiles with IIR and RF seekers can be sent to four different targets within 6 seconds. Offering 360-degree coverage thanks to its vertical launch system, the system can be effective at 20 km range and 30,000 feet altitude. The VL MICA system, which can be installed and become ready to fire in 10 minutes, uses MICA RF and MICA IR missiles carrying 12 kg warheads.
